Team Lifting and Mechanical Aids

• Use a mechanical aid in preference to manual handling wherever possible.
• Appoint a team leader to give clear lift, move, and lower commands.
• Assess the load weight, shape, and grip points before any team lift.
• Plan the route and clear obstacles before lifting and moving the load.
• Ensure all team members can see and hear the leader's commands clearly.
• Match team members by height and strength for balanced load sharing.
• Inspect mechanical aids before use and report any defects immediately.
• Train all operatives in the correct use of available mechanical aids.
• Take breaks and rotate tasks to prevent fatigue during repetitive handling.
• Use gloves with good grip to reduce the risk of dropping loads.

• DON'T attempt a team lift without an appointed leader giving commands.
• DON'T assume two people can safely lift double what one person can.
• DON'T carry loads over uneven ground without checking the route first.
• DON'T use damaged or defective mechanical aids — report and replace them.
• DON'T twist your body while carrying a load in a team lift.
• DON'T rush a team lift — take time to coordinate and communicate.
• DON'T lift loads manually when a mechanical aid is available.
• DON'T carry loads that block your view of the route ahead.
• DON'T ignore pain or discomfort during lifting — stop and report it.
• DON'T operate mechanical aids without training on that specific equipment.

See also: Manual Handling Awareness | Correct Lifting Technique